Auckland Rugby League - Round 8 roundup

Lion Red Fox Memorial

Manurewa halfback Aaron Woodhouse scored and converted a last minute try to give the Marlins their second win in the Lion Red Fox Memorial Premiership, and victory over Glenora 20-18 in trying conditions at Harold Moody Park. The Bears dominated the first spell and went to the sheds 18-4 up. But the Marlins hit back with centre pairing Tony Va'a and Vince Fatu causing great trouble out on the flanks. Les Nicholsen and Johnny Veutibau both contributed with tries in the second forty before Woodhouse put the nail in the coffin with the game breaker. Charging props Manu Tawhi and Ben Fukofuka have combined to get Papakura home against Richmond 22-14 in very sluggish conditions at Prince Edward Park. Both players starred for the Sea Eagles in what was a battle of attrition. The game was dominated by the forwards with Sea Eagles second rower Arapeta Taitoko tackling his heart out to leave Richmond scoreless in the first half. Leading 14-0 at the split Papakura halfback Henry Dunn controlled the game exceptionally well in the second forty and never let his side go too wide or get carried away with the lead. The Marist Saints are back on track after an impressive display against a well drilled East Coast Bays side. The Saints won their fourth game of the competition, beating the Barracudas 34-16 at home. Drawn ten all at the split, the home side increased the tempo and ensured they completed all their sets in the second spell. Seventeen year-old fullback Kalifa Fai-Loa played a major role in the win, the young flyer crossed for two tries in what was a much improved Marist performance. The Otahuhu Leopards game against the Te Atatu Roosters was postponed until the bye weekend of 14th of July due to unplayable field conditions.

Marist Saints 34 East Coast Bays Barracudas 16 Manurewa Marlins 20 Glenora Bears 18 Papakura Sea Eagles 22 Richmond Bulldogs 14 Otahuhu Leopards Vs Te Atatu Roosters (Postponed due to unplayable field conditions)

SAS Sharman Cup A hatrick to the Tigers Guy McPherson has seen Northcote win comfortably over Mangere East 35-14. Led by a front row consisting of hooker Glen Hau and props Rob Colley and Junior Lesa, Northcote dominated the ruck and held strong through the middle. Leading 14-8 at the split the Tigers capitalised on possession with Lamond Copestake touching down for a double. Vikings fullback Sione Haangana proved a handful in his side